Looking for a fun jello shot recipe that’s perfect for holiday parties? These candy cane jello shots alternate red and white layers for a festive candy cane look that’s perfect for the holiday season.

Candy cane jello shots with red and white layers.

But don’t be fooled- these boozy teats are not peppermint flavored! Instead, they mix cherry gelatin with a creamy white layer for a delicious flavor combination that’s sure to be a hit at your next Christmas party!

However, if you would prefer peppermint vodka jello shots, I have included a note on how to make those below as well.

Hand holding a Candy Cane Jello Shot with red and white layers and whipped cream topping with sprinkles.

Looking for more festive jello shot ideas? Try my Sugar Cookie Jello Shots, Ginch Jello Shots, and Santa Hat Jello Shots for even more holiday fun!

Ingredients

This section includes ingredient notes and substitution options. Get all measurements, ingredients, and instructions in the printable recipe card at the end of this post.

Cherry Jello Mix – Cherry Jell-O gives the vodka jello shots a sweet, fruity flavor. You can use any red jello flavor, such as strawberry, cranberry, or raspberry, for a different taste.
Vodka – Provides the alcohol content for the shots. You can substitute with flavored vodka for an extra twist or use a non-alcoholic option like water if desired. Vanilla vodka would be a tasty twist.
Unflavored Gelatin – I always use Knox gelatin. You will need 2 of the .25 ounce packets for this recipe.
Sweetened Condensed Milk – Adds richness and sweetness to the white layer. For a lighter option, try using fat-free sweetened condensed milk (although I haven’t tested this myself yet).
Whipped Cream – Adds a sweet, creamy finish. You can use a store-bought can like Reddi-Whip or homemade stabilized whipped cream, or skip it if you prefer.
Sprinkles – Optional but highly recommend for an extra festive touch. Any type of sprinkles can be used but I prefer using Christmas nonpareils sprinkles. These fun candy cane sprinkles would be a great option as well.

How to Make Candy Cane Gelatin Shots

This section shows you how to make the recipe with step-by-step photos and instructions. For the full printable recipe, see the recipe card below.

Four image collage of jello shots being made. 1: cherry jello filling shot cups 1/3 of the way. 2: shots with white gelatin added. 3: Shots topped off with red jello. 4: Shots set and topped with whipped cream and christmas sprinkles.

1st Red Layer: Dissolve cherry gelatin in boiling water, add vodka and cold water, pour into plastic shot glasses, and chill.
White Layer: Dissolve gelatin mix in water, stir in condensed milk and vodka, pour on top of the red jello in shot cups, and chill.
Final Red Layer: Fill cups with remaining jello mixture and chill until fully set.
Serve: Garnish with whip cream and sprinkles, if desired.

Party Shot Cups:

We used 1-ounce cups but you can use 2-ounce jello shot cups instead for larger shots. Just keep in mind that the recipe will yield fewer shots if you increase the size of the cups.

Red and white layered Christmas jello shots with whipped cream and sprinkles.

Storage

Store the jello shots covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Avoid adding whipped cream or sprinkles until just before serving for the best presentation.

Tips for the Best Jello Shots

Chill the vodka in advance to help the jello set faster and more evenly.
Use a large, heat-safe spouted measuring cup for easy pouring and to avoid spills when filling the shot cups.
Gently tap the cups on the counter after each pour to release air bubbles and create smooth layers.

Additions and Variations

Peppermint Vodka: Replace the regular vodka with peppermint vodka for a minty twist that enhances the candy cane theme.
Lime Gelatin: Swap out the cherry gelatin with lime jello for a green and white festive look, perfect for a different holiday vibe.
Crushed Candy Canes: Crush candy canes and sprinkle them on top of the whipped cream for a burst of peppermint flavor and crunch.

Holiday Candy Cane Jello Shot with red and white layers and whipped cream topping with sprinkles.

More Holiday Drinks & Shots

If you enjoy this candy cane jello shots recipe I am sure that you would love my other Christmas jello Shots and cocktails as well:

Recipe

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Candy Cane Gelatin Shots

Author: Jaclyn

Prep: 20

Chill Time 3

Total: 3 20

Candy cane jello shots are a holiday party favorite! With cherry jello and red and white layers, these Christmas jello shots have a fun candy cane look—no peppermint flavor!

Equipment

1 ounce plastic cups

Ingredients

▢ 3 ounces cherry Jello mix
▢ 2 ½ cups water divided
▢ 1 cup vodka
▢ ½ ounce unflavored gelatin mix 2 packets
▢ ½ cup sweetened condensed milk
▢ whipped cream optional topping
▢ christmas sprinkles optional topping

Instructions

Prep

Clear space in your refrigerator to make room for the jello shots. Place plastic shot cups on a rimmed tray or in a baking dish so they can be easily transferred to and from the fridge.

Red Layer

In a small saucepan, bring 1 cup of water to a boil over high heat. Remove from heat and whisk in the cherry jello mix until fully dissolved.
Add ½ cup cold water and ½ cup vodka; stir to combine.
Carefully pour the red jello mixture into the shot cups, filling them each about ⅓ of the way.
Place in the refrigerator to chill for 30 minutes.

White Layer

Meanwhile, add 1 cup of room temperature water to a small saucepan. Sprinkle the unflavored gelatin on top of the water and let it sit for 5 minutes to allow the gelatin to "bloom."
Heat the mixture over medium heat, whisking until the gelatin dissolves, about 2 minutes. Do not let the water come to a boil!
Remove from heat and stir in the sweetened condensed milk and ½ cup vodka. Set aside to cool.
Once the red layer has finished chilling, pour the white gelatin mixture into the shot cups, filling them to ⅔ of the way.
Return the cups to the refrigerator and chill for another 30 minutes.